5 Bears Free Agents Most Likely to Walk This Offseason

2. Lucas Patrick, C

I think all Bears fans can agree that Patrick is not the long-term answer at center or any position for that matter. Say what you want about PFF, but when it comes to offensive linemen it can be a useful tool.

According to PFF, Patrick ended the year with a 50.5 overall grade.

Patrick was one of the first people brought over when Luke Getsy was named the offensive coordinator due to their work together in Green Bay. At this point, they looked like double agents brought in to sabotage the Bears.

Too often we saw Patrick dog-walked straight back into Fields' lap forcing him to leave a pocket much earlier than the play called for. The Bears have struggled at the center position for a few years now and they will need to upgrade at the position if bringing in a rookie quarterback, which is all but a lock at this point.

Patrick was not likely to return regardless, but the trade for Ryan Bates all but confirms that now. I don't think Bates will come in and be the starting center, but it is depth nonetheless. The Bears can look elsewhere for a starting center.